Smile
Nat King Cole Lyrics


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Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking
When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
If you smile through your fear and sorrow
Smile and maybe tomorrow
You'll see the sun come shining through for you

Light up your face with gladness
Hide every trace of sadness
Although a tear may be ever so near

That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?
You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

That's the time you must keep on trying
Smile, what's the use of crying?




You'll find that life is still worthwhile
If you just smile

Overall Meaning

The song "Smile" is a masterpiece written by Charlie Chaplin for his 1936 movie "Modern Times". However, it was not until Nat King Cole's version in 1954 that the song gained immense popularity. The lyrics are motivational; they urge the listener to keep going despite the challenges of life.


The opening lines are somewhat paradoxical, "Smile though your heart is aching, smile even though it's breaking." The lines evoke a sense of courage and hope, even when the circumstances are challenging. The verse suggests that a smile helps alleviate the pain and gives a sense of comfort to oneself, even when it seems difficult. The lines, "When there are clouds in the sky, You'll get by" emphasizes that one should not be deterred by temporary setbacks as they will eventually pass.


The second verse suggests the need to fight back sadness even when it is waiting around the corner. The line, "Although a tear may be ever so near," encourages an individual to put on a strong front, as it may be the one characteristic that boosts one's confidence. In this regard, the chorus emphasizes the need to keep smiling and not giving up, regardless of the situation's complexity.


Line by Line Meaning

Smile though your heart is aching
Even if your heart is breaking, it's important to keep a smile on your face.


Smile even though it's breaking
No matter how much hurt you may carry within, it's important to keep your spirits up and smile.


When there are clouds in the sky, you'll get by
When there are problems you may face in life, smiling even during those times can help you get through it.


If you smile through your fear and sorrow
If you smile when you are scared or feel a sense of grief, it can make things seem a little bit easier, even if only for a moment.


Smile and maybe tomorrow
If you just smile, you may have a better tomorrow that leads to a brighter future.


You'll see the sun come shining through for you
If you keep smiling even through tough times, things can get better and brighten up your day, just like the sun shining through the clouds.


Light up your face with gladness
Put on a happy face and focus on the good things in life to bring joy and happiness to your life.


Hide every trace of sadness
Putting on a brave face, despite your sadness, can help you deal with the overwhelming emotions that you may feel.


Although a tear may be ever so near
Even if you feel like crying, sometimes hiding that sadness and keeping a positive outlook can help you cope with the pain, even if just for a moment.


That's the time you must keep on trying
During hard times, it's critical to keep on pushing through to overcome the difficulties you may encounter.


Smile, what's the use of crying?
Instead of getting stuck in your sadness, focus on putting on a happy face and smile, even if only for a moment.


You'll find that life is still worthwhile
Despite how tough life may seem at times, a smile can help remind you that there is still joy and hope in the world.


If you just smile
A simple smile can do wonders to help you cope with grief, feel hopeful, and bring joy to others around you.




Lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Tratore, Hipgnosis Songs Group
Written by: John Turner, Geoffrey Parsons, Charles Chaplin

Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
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Comments from YouTube:

@sheilamcconnell8042

I am 81, alone. I listen to this regularly and I cry. Then I feel better. Such is the power of the melody and the lyrics.

@MarkParker

:)

@yellowstonecounty

I'm only 65 and I've always loved it. I'm with you; we're all with you

@CRISTINA-jf3wb

I came in this world in 54

@fly69doc

Dont you uave family or friends?

@sheilamcconnell8042

@@fly69doc Sadly, no. There are people I know - but family and friends , and everyone I have ever loved, have all gone before me. Thank you for asking. Music is a great comfort. x

268 More Replies...

@jasminelu_2957

My daughter that passed away came into my dream last night with a big hug and this song was playing so I’m playing it now 💫

@sleeplessinbklyn1

😪 My Condolences to you n family, She doesn't want you to be sad. Look Up TO THE SKY n Smile XO

@jacekjanusz9840

God Bless Your daughter, just be well

@izatilli4739

@Cian MacGana that does still count going trough a miscarriage is still a very heartbreaking and traumatic event

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